Amber Thursday aims to create a safer Kerry

Launching Amber Thursday on Banna Strand were, in front, Yaroslav Rashyn, Banna Sea Rescue, Sgt David Carney, An Garda Siochána, lifeguards Shona Carroll, Brian Enright, Noah Edwards, Leah Long Lifeguard, John O’Donnell, Fire Officer, TJ O’Connor, Road Safety Authority and Declan Keogh, Road Safety Officer, Kerry County Council with, at back, Banna Sea Rescue volunteers Brian Crean, Eoin Buckley, John Sheehan and Diyana Dimitrova.
Pictures: Domnick Walsh

Firefighters joined road and water safety officials to launch this year’s Amber Thursday ahead of the August bank holiday weekend which is traditionally a busy time for emergency services.

After another tragic weekend on the roads resulting in multiple fatalities in separate incidents, the promotion is an inter-agency joint initiative to raise awareness of the risks and dangers on the road, in water or with fire. This year, there is a heavy focus on road safety.

Kerry County Council’s Road Safety Officer Declan Keogh said every person who uses the roads needs to be aware of the risks all around them.

“While one person might be doing everything safe and correct, the actions of another road user could change all of that in an instant,” he said.

“We are appealing to motorists in particular to always drive safe and sober, drive within the speed limits and for everyone traveling in a vehicle to wear a seatbelt.

The launch of Amber Thursday on Banna Strand

“Motorists also need to look out for vulnerable road users and take breaks on long journeys to avoid driver fatigue,” Mr Keogh said.

Garda Inspector Gary Carroll of the Roads Policing Unit said the August bank holiday weekend is, historically, one of the busiest weekends of the year.

“All members of An Garda Siochana attached to the Kerry Division are committed to working with our sister organisations to ensure the safety of the public we serve,” he said.

Water rescuers are also expected to have a busy weekend as people take to water activities. Last year, the Irish Coast Guard coordinated responses to 2,788 incidents, which was the second highest number in 5 years, and August was their busiest month with a total of 391 incidents.

Swimmers are reminded to swim within their depth, not to use inflatable toys on open water and always swim at a lifeguarded beach.

The bank holiday weekend can also be a busy time for firefighters who are called to various incidents including barbeque or domestic fires and road traffic collisions.

To avoid injuries, or damage to property, never barbecue on a balcony and ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, well away from the house or apartment, trees or shrubs.

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